For the second time this year, Claremorris native, Senator Catherine Noone is causing controversy with her tweets.

The Senator who chaired the Oireachtas committee on the Eighth Amendment deleted a tweet last night that had stated that the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, was pleased by the result of Ireland’s abortion referendum.

According to today’s Irish Times, after meeting the duchess at the British ambassador’s residence in Dublin yesterday Senator Noone tweeted: “The Duchess and I had a chat about the recent referendum result — she watched with interest and was pleased to see the result.”

However, she followed up with a second tweet that clarified: “I should say she seemed pleased — she was interested and very measured, not political at all.”

The second tweet was also later deleted and a post shortly after 10.30pm last night accompanied by a photo just said: “A pleasure to meet Prince Harry & the Duchess of Sussex at the British Ambassador’s Residence this evening.

Last Easter a tweet published by Senator Noone was dubbed as an attack on freedom of religious expression and ageist.

In that tweet, later deleted by the Senator , she wrote: “Easter Mass in Knock Basilica this afternoon with my parents – an octogenarian priest took at least three opportunities to preach to us about abortion – it’s no wonder people feel disillusioned with the Catholic Church.” It led to an angry out pouring across social media at that time.

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Four female lecturers, who claim they were discriminated against on gender grounds, are being promoted as part of a settlement with NUI Galway which is understood to run to hundreds of thousands of euro. The lecturers, who initiated a High Court action…

An investigation is underway following a fatal farming accident yesterday in South Galway. A 73-year old man was found dead on farm land in the Crannagh area near Gort. The Health & Safety Authority is investigating the incident, and a spokesperson told…

Archbishop Michael Neary will lead the annual Croagh Patrick pilgrimage this Sunday. On Saturday evening, Archbishop Neary will celebrate Mass in St Mary's Church, Westport at 6.30pm to mark the official start of this year's pilgrimage. On Reek Sunday, Mass…

The Government has approved a proposal to change the treatment of farms and businesses under the Fair Deal scheme. Currently, people using the scheme contribute up to 80 per cent of their income and up to 7.5 per cent of the value of any assets held towards…

Senator Catherine Noone, a native of Claremorris, has been added to the Fine Gael election ticket in Dublin Bay North. Senator Noone will run alongside Education Minister Richard Bruton after a meeting of the party's executive council earlier this week.…

People attending Ballinrobe Races this evening can also enjoy free WiFi -and Ballinrobe Racecourse has become the first Irish racecourse to offer the service. There's a 7-race card in Ballinrobe this evening, with the first race off at 5.50. Manager John…

The cutting down of road signs in areas across Co Mayo has been described as thuggery, and vandalism at its worst by Castlebar-based Fianna Fail Councillor Al McDonnell. Councillor McDonnell says he's aware of road signs being cut down, often in the middle of…

A company in Tubbercurry, Co Sligo which employs 48 people has gone into examinership, in an effort to safeguard its future. Basta, which manufactures locks, hinges and handles for doors and windows, has been a major employer in Tubbercurry for over 60 years.…

A Mayo author has been longlisted for the 2018 Man Booker prize. 27-year old Sally Rooney, a native of Castlebar, is one of 13 writers whose books have been included in the longlist for the prestigious literary award. Her debut novel "Conversations with…

A Mayo Fianna Fáil TD says the increase in the number of people presenting at Mayo University Hospital's Emergency Department is further proof of the Government's inaction in dealing with the current health crisis. Deputy Lisa Chambers submitted a number of…

There's more travel chaos for Ryanair passengers today. It's the third day of 24 hour strike action by around 100 of its Irish based pilots. This industrial action centres on a long running dispute between Ryanair and around 100 Irish based pilots directly…

Irish Rail is advising those travelling to Dublin for the Pope's visit next month that train seats must be booked in advance. There will be no access to trains on Sunday 26th August without a ticket or reservation. Irish Rail says train tickets will not be…

Minister for Children Katherine Zappone has said she is assessing whether to fully excavate the site of the former Mother and Baby Home in Tuam, or to limit the search for human remains to areas where burials are strongly suspected to have taken place. Ms…

The DPP has appealed the sentence handed down to a drunk driver who killed a pedestrian and injured two Gardaí. Adrian Nestor from Keamsella, Kilcolgan, Co. Galway was given 240 hours community service instead of a four year prison sentence. In the early…

A deep sea research mission has uncovered rare coral off the West coast, previously undocumented in Irish waters. Marine scientists located a type of black coral that is different to any other found to date and which may prove to be an entirely new species.…

The High Court has today approved a settlement of €55,000 to the family of an 82-year-old Mayo man, who died after being admitted to Mayo General Hospital following a traffic collision four years ago. The family of Darby King from Ballinalecka, Castlebar, who…

Thousands of pilgrims are expected to climb Croagh Patrick this Reek Sunday weekend. Accurate counting procedures undertaken by Mayo county council indicated that 5,000 people climbed Mayo’s holy mountain on Reek Sunday last year. Masses will be celebrated on…

Friends and colleagues of the late Irish Coast Guard rescue pilot Dara Fitzpatrick will gather for a second memorial charity run in her honour. The Dara Fitzpatrick Run will take place at Waterford Airport runway on 15th September and funds from the event…

165,000 euro in funding has been announced under the Leader Programme for the Mayo Academy of Performing Arts. The group is based in the Enterprise Centre on the Breaffy road in Castlebar. Making the announcement Minister Michael Ring said it’s a significant…

Independent Senator Gerard Craughwell has this morning confirmed to Midwest News that he will not be contesting the Presidential Election in the autumn. In a statement, Senator Craughwell said last year he had become concerned that the main political parties…

Grants have been allocated to schools offering Computer Science and Physical Education as Leaving Cert Subjects. 104 post -primary schools will offer the courses for the first time from September. St Mary’s Secondary School in Ballina is offering Physical…

The Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District has threatened to paint pedestrian crossings at two locations in the county town before the end of the year. Independent councillor Michael Kilcoyne says he has lobbied on a a number of occasions to have…

The Children's Minister is to visit Tuam later today. She is expected to hear the views of people on the future of the site of the Tuam Mother and Baby Home. Katherine Zappone says she's preparing to make a recommendation to Government on the future of…

Funding of €75,000 has been approved for Aughagower Community Playground under the LEADER programme. The funding will be provided by Minister Michael Ring’s Department through the Mayo LEADER Local Action Group. This follows on from a recent announcement of…

A group of sixteen puppies found in Athenry earlier this week were being kept in what has been described as appalling conditions. Rte.ie are reporting that the dogs were rescued after a member of the public heard sounds coming from an abandoned horsebox in…

Fine Gael has opened up a strong lead over Fianna Fail in the latest opinion poll. The Sunday Times/Behaviour and Attitudes Survey shows a six point swing to the government party. It stands on 34 per cent while, Fianna Fail is on 21 per cent support. Sinn…

A Mayo Senator believes the premature scrapping of roadworthy cars must be ended. Fine Gael Senator Michelle Mulherin says tens of thousands of roadworthy vehicles are being prematurely scrapped every year- many of which have passed the NCT - and she claims…

Bord Bia will highlight Quality Assurance benefits to farmers, and will support them in preparation for farm audits during a series of farm walk events in the coming months. The first such event will take place on Monday July 23rd on the farm of Fergal Doyle,…

The public’s views on fees imposed by retailers and companies that issue gift vouchers are being sought as part of a consultation launched by the Minister for Enterprise Heather Humphreys. The consultation comes on the back of an announcement last month that…

Drink drivers caught flouting the law will be put off the road with no exceptions. An amendment to The Road Traffic Bill was passed through the Dail this week. The tough new drink driving rules mean drivers could be banned even if they've only had half a pint…

Kite fliers and spectators of all ages will experience a visual feast as the Mayo International Kite Festival returns to Keel Beach, Achill Island from 11am until 5pm this Sunday. This free event is organized by Pure Magic and Mayo County Council. Kite…

Almost 150 swimmers will take the plunge today for the Galway Bay Swim. It'll start from Auginish in County Clare and competitors will swim around 13 kilometres to Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill. The money raised will go towards the Cancer Care West…

A report in this morning's Irish Times says the Department of Justice has confirmed it will not renew a contract with the Abbeyfield Hotel in Ballaghaderreen, which has housed Syrian refugees for more than a year. The contract with the Abbeyfield Hotel…

A 61 year old man has been jailed for 18 years for regularly sexually assaulting his eldest daughter from the age of 3. John Murphy with an address in Arbour Hill Prison in Dublin but formerly from Foxford in Co Mayo pleaded guilty. His daughter Sophia, who…

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed today announced that the deadline for submission of data for Farm Improvement Plans in Knowledge Transfer Groups will be extended by two weeks until 14th August, 2018. The 31st July deadline for…

A Donegal man who lost his life in this week’s boating tragedy at Malin Head will be laid to rest today. Gerry Doherty who was in his 60's, will be buried after Funeral Mass at St Mary's Church, Lagg, Malin. Among those at the funeral will be Gerry's…

The Minister for Justice and Equality and the Acting Garda Commissioner will be in Galway today. Minister Charlie Flanagan and Donall O’Cualain will officially open the Western Region Garda Headquarters in Galway this morning. The new headquarters will be…

A Fine Gael Senator says the investment of 26m euro in the expansion of the Aurivo Dairy Ingredients plant in Ballaghaderreen is very positive news for the town. The investment in the Ballaghaderreen plant is part of a wider 5-year Capital Investment…

The first site by site survey of facilities and conditions for Travellers in Galway has found widespread violations of human rights standards. The report, released today, was carried out by the Galway Traveller Community in cooperation with the county's…

Two candidates have been selected to run for Fine Gael in next General Election in the Sligo/Leitrim constituency. Councillor Sinead Maguire and former TD and Senator Gerry Reynolds were selected at the convention chaired by Minister of State Damien English…

A Galway West TD has welcomed the publication of the report by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Housing, Planning and Local Government which looked at island voting. Fianna Fail Deputy Eamon O’Cuiv says he welcomes the report and supports the recommendation…

A Ballyhaunis company is among five sites listed by the Environmental Protection Agency as National Priority Sites for Enforcement. Five sites have been included on the latest list for failing to meet the necessary environmental standards - including the…

Bank of Ireland has confirmed that cash counters at their branches in Belmullet and Westport will remain open all day, from September. Last Summer, the Bank of Ireland closed cash counters at both branches from 12.30 each afternoon, which was a huge…

A second day of strike action by Dublin-based Ryanair pilots will take place tomorrow, but will not impact on any flights into or out of Ireland West Airport Knock. Talks between Ryanair management and unions took place yesterday, but there was no…

A creche in Co Galway has been closed, following an outbreak of E-coli. The creche in the Dunmore area has been temporarily closed after three children were diagnosed with a serious form of gastroenteritis last week, while a further four cases have been…

Two events on Achill Island this weekend have been postponed, due to the deaths of a teenager and a man in his 60's in a drowning accident off the Donegal coast - both of whom have close family connections with Achill. 16-year old Thomas Weir from Scotland -…

Minister of State Damien English will travel to Sligo this evening to chair the Fine Gael selection convention for the Sligo / Leitrim constituency. There are 8 candidates seeking nomination to contest the next general election for FG. Former Junior Minister…

Gardai in Westport are investigating the seizure of a significant amount of cannabis last weekend. It's understood the drugs, worth in the region of €20,000, were found in a wooded area near The Point. Members of the Westport Drugs Unit were involved in the…

A new exhibition of the paintings of Co Roscommon-born artist Roderic O'Conor has gone on display today at the National Gallery in Dublin. Roderic O'Conor was born in Castleplunkett in 1860 and his family relocated to Dublin when he was a child. The artist…

The extension of free GP care to all carers has been welcomed this evening by Mayo FG Senator Michelle Mulherin. New legislation has been passed by the Oireachtas, which means that 14,000 carers nationally will now receive a free GP Visit Card. Anyone…

Gardai in Swinford are appealing for any witnesses to an incident that occured 7 weeks ago near Kilkelly to come forward. On Tuesday 29th May, at about 2 pm in the afternoon, a cyclist was found on the roadside close to the Applegreen 24-hour service station…

A group representing survivors of the Tuam Mother and Baby Home say they have communicated without any doubt to the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, what they believe should happen with the site of the former home. Tuam Home Survivors Network was…

Midwest News understands that the 16-year-old boy and man in his 60’s who died in a drowning tragedy in Donegal yesterday both have strong family connections on Achill Island. The teenage boy and man drowned in a fishing boat accident off Donegal. They have…

Mayo County Councillors have requested a special meeting of the authority to discuss the decision to remove planning issues from the agenda of Municipal Districts. This follows a directive issued earlier this year by the Minister for Housing & Local…

A new recruitment campaign has been launched for 72 Irish language translator posts in the European Union. Translators are required to work in the Institutions of the EU in both Brussels and Luxembourg. The employment opportunities were announced at an event…

Funeral arrangements have been confirmed for the woman who died in a farm accident in the Headford area on Monday. 54-year-old Patricia Newell from Curracuggeen died after she was injured while tending to cattle in a field. She was pronounced dead at the…

The death has taken place in Westport of former Town Councillor John Joe O’Malley. Mr O’Malley, from Horkan’s Hill, was a member of the now defunct Westport Town Council for 20 years, from 1979 to 1999, and he served as Cathaoirleach of the Council in 1986…

The second annual Mayo Pride Festival will be staged in Castlebar this weekend. Last year’s inaugural event was a huge success with over 300 people turning out. The parade takes place on Saturday gathering at 1.30pm on the Mall. On Friday night a comedy night…

The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone is to visit Tuam on Monday evening next. During the visit she is expected to take time listening to the views of people on the future of the site of the Tuam Mother and Baby Home. Speaking…

Gardaí are looking for help in finding a missing 16 year old from Tuam, Co Galway. Diane Limsipson was last seen on the 6th of July. She is described as being 4 foot 11, with black hair, of slim build and brown eyes. When last seen she was wearing a grey…

Funding from a €40 million pot for programmes to support disadvantaged people and communities has been made available here in Mayo. The Dormant Accounts Fund is used to assist those most in need in our communities. Minister for Rural and Community Development…

The Mobile phone operator, EIR have confirmed to Midwest News this afternoon that there is intermittent disruption to their service in the Ballyhaunis area today. Technicians are undertaking scheduled Mass testing which is expected to be completed by 6pm this…

Plans are progressing to build an equine unit at Castlerea Prison, which will allow prisoners to work with horses. It's hoped the stable unit may open next Spring, according to Jonathan Irwin, founder of the Jack & Jill Foundation and a former blood stock…

Mayo County Councillors are due to hold a private meeting tonight to discuss the controversial directive that planning issues should not be discussed at county council or municipal district meetings, prior to a decision being made on a planning application.…

One of the 9 candidates putting forward their names for the Fine Gael selection convention in Sligo / Leitrim has withdrawn. Eddie Mitchell from north Leitrim - who was prominent in the anti-fracking campaign - has decided not to seek a nomination, saying he…

The Health & Safety Authority is investigating the death of a woman on a farm in Co Galway yesterday. The 54-year old woman was found dead yesterday afternoon in a field in the Headford area. There was livestock in the field at the time, and a spokesman for…

The introduction of compulsory electronic tagging of sheep from 1st October next is unworkable, according to the Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association, which has called for the starting date to be deferred. The farming group also says that, if Minister…

A second strike by Irish Ryanair pilots looks set to go ahead on Friday, resulting in the cancellation of 24 flights between Ireland and the UK. The airline had invited representatives of trade union Fórsa to a meeting this morning to discuss the ongoing row…

The inquest into the death of an Islandeady woman, who was murdered by her son over 7 years ago, will take place next month. 46-year old Nóirín Kelly from Derrycrieve, Islandeady was killed in her home on 9th March 2011. In February 2014, her son Celyn was…

Gardai in Belmullet have renewed their appeal for information on a teenager missing for over three months. 16-year old Paddy McDonagh has been missing from Belderrig since early April. He was last seen in Belderrig at about 7pm on the evening of Tuesday 3rd…

Former Minister of State John Perry will attempt to make his political comeback this week as he contests the Fine Gael selection convention in Sligo / Leitrim. The former Sligo-Leitrim TD says his decision to mount a legal challenge against Fine Gael after he…

Over 500 artists, musicians and performers will take part in the Galway International Arts Festival, which gets underway today. It's one of Europe's leading international arts festivals, and this year's programme once again includes a mix of Irish and…

A Galway punter walked away with over €15,000 after putting his faith in Brandon Stone to win the Scottish Open yesterday. The South African shot a course record round of 60 to claim the Scottish Open, and one punter from Co Galway had placed a €25 euro…

The Garda Representative Association says it's unacceptable that 20% of Garda stations don't have access to the internet. According to Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan, nearly one in five Garda stations are unable to connect to the internet. In response…

A helmet and lifejacket believed to be from crashed Irish Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 116 have been recovered from the Atlantic almost 16 months after the tragedy. Gardaí confirmed that a fisherman discovered the items while fishing just off the west coast…

Today marks the start of Farm Safety Week, which aims to reduce the numbers of accidents on farms The initiative, which was started by the Irish Farmers Association six years ago, also looks to bring about change to allow better safety procedures. Farming…

Almost 5 million euro has been spent on ambulances to Mayo University Hospital over the past seven years, and according to Erris based Sinn Fein Senator Rose Conway Walsh it’s too high a price to pay when the service is not under HSE control. The senator…

The man who died in a single vehicle road accident on the N5 near Swinford on Saturday evening has been named. John Patrick Hannon who was in his 70’s lost his life when the SUV he was driving left the road and struck a wall on the Swinford side of the…

Fianna Fail has introduced a Bill in the Dáíl which will allow parents to share maternity leave. It's hoped the legislation will give parents the flexibility to decide how to make their maternity leave work best for them. Mayo TD Lisa Chambers along with…

It now looks likely that the long awaited flood relief works at Carrowholly outside Westport will get underway by September. That’s according to the Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring. The Minister says over a million euro has been set…

Gardai in Swinford are appealing for witnesses after a man died following a road collision yesterday evening. Gardai and the emergency services were called to the scene of the single vehicle collision at Ballinvoher near Swinford at approximately 6.45…

A man was fatally injured in a single vehicle road collision this evening between Bohola and Swinford on the N5. The tragedy occurred at about 7.30pm. The road is closed to traffic as a result. Diversions are in place.

More time's being given to women to avail of a scheme to get free access to more smear tests. According to the Irish Independent, it'll now be available up to the end of this year. The screenings have been provided since May, as women sought reassurance…

There is a major power outage in Claremorris this afternoon. Over 1300 customers are without electricity in the Claremorris area since around 11.30 this morning. According to ESB Powercheck, supply should be restored around 3pm today.

A gorse fire near Barna in Galway reignited again yesterday and emergency crews spent a number of hours last night tackling the blaze. The fire at Truskey West first began earlier this week and flared up on a number of occasions over the past few days. Fire…

Burnout is now said to be commonplace in nursing and midwifery and unless pay is addressed the recruitment and retention crisis will get worse in our hospitals according to the INMO. The nurses union was before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health this…

The tender has gone out for the provision of safety barriers along a notoriously dangerous stretch of new road surface along the N58 between Foxford and Ballyvary. Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) have devised the barriers, that are unique, as they…

A theft to a Castlebar business premises has been prevented and the intimidation of a visitor to the county town has been dealt with, as a direct result the new Castlebar Business Watch, officially launched by the gardai last month. Garda Mick Toland is the…

The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is in county Mayo today for a number of engagements. Earlier today the Taoiseach visited The Town Hall Theatre in Westport where the government hosted a special forum on “Creating Stronger Rural economies and Communities”, part of…

Gardaí in Cork are following a definite line of inquiry after the death of a 24-year-old man stabbed in Mallow last night. They've made a direct appeal to find a man who was present when he was injured on Bridge Street at around half-eight. It's believed the…

The official route for Cannonball 2018 has been announced and County Mayo will once again be hosting the supercar spectacle on Friday September 8th. The event was in Westpost in 2016 and it was such a huge success that it has been chosen once again in 2018 to…

Minister for Rural and Community Affairs Michael Ring said he was surprised to hear Ballinrobe based Fianna Fail councillor earlier this week, announce on Midwest News, that the village of Cong had secured 70,000 for flood relief works. Minister Ring is…

Gardai in Ballina are investigating a break-in to the community centre in Moygownagh in which gardening equipment was stolen. The incident occurred sometime between 10pm on Wednesday evening and 7am yesterday (Thursday morning). 3 Sthil strimmers were taken…

Driver inattention and congestion can be major causes of crashes. Mayo County Council is warning drivers to take care this Friday the 13th, as previous British Medical Journal research shows it's not a good day on the roads. Road Safety Officer Noel Gibbons…

There is said to be strong interest from stamp collectors and others in two stamps issued to mark the visit of Pope Francis to Ireland next month for the World Meeting of Families gathering. According to today’s Irish Times, more than 450,000 €1 stamps…

The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is in county Mayo today for a number of engagements. He will begin his visit about 12 noon in The Town Hall Theatre in Westport where the government is hosting a special forum on “Creating Stronger Rural economies and Communities”,…

A group of Galway work colleagues embarked on what’s being described as a “top secret mission” as they discreetly collected a EuroMillions prize worth €1 million from National Lottery headquarters in Dublin today. The lucky Galway group won the EuroMillions…

Mayo Senator Rose Conway-Walsh says that the ending of legal proceedings between the HSE and the drugs company PTC, offers a real chance to provide sufferers of Duchenne muscular dystrophy with the Translarna drug without delay. There are five children in…

The CEO of the proposed new Westport House and Estate development project, Tim Husbands, has resigned from the company to return to mainstream tourism, where previously he was CEO of Titanic Belfast. Mr Husbands cited delays in the advancement of the project…

The speed of traffic travelling through the south Mayo village of Kilmaine along the N84 Ballinrobe to Tuam road and connecting onto the R332 Kilmaine to Foxhall road to access the new motorway, is a cause of great concern to local residents. In addition…

Due to the weather conditions, Mayo County Council has extended the hours worked by the Lifeguards at the following beaches:- Bertra Carrowmore Carrowniskey Old Head Keel Keem Mulranny Silver Strand, Dugort Ross The Beach Lifeguards will be working from 11:00…

Ballyhaunis-born war hero Corporal Patrick Gallagher will be remembered in Cork tomorrow, when the 2018 Irish Navy class graduating from the Naval Base will take his name. Bob Gallagher from Derrintogher, Ballyhaunis was killed in Vietnam in 1967 - shortly…

Ryanair pilots are on strike this morning. The airline has cancelled 30 of 290 scheduled flights between Ireland and the UK - but has already alerted affected customers. The company says if customers have NOT received notifications - they should travel as…

The HSE has confirmed that no Trauma patients are now being accepted at Portiuncla Hospital in Ballinasloe. From the start of April, a major trauma bypass protocol has been in place in relation to Portiuncla, which means that trauma patients are being brought…

Nurses have warned that the conditions endured by patients in hospital Emergency Departments are in danger of getting worse next winter. Speaking at the Oireachtas Health Committee yesterday, unions expressed fears that an extra 600 beds which are promised to…

Clár funding of €242,000 has been approved this morning for ten first responder organisations in Co Mayo. Voluntary groups from across the county will benefit from the funding,which will help to fund ambulances, defibrillators and other equipment. St John’s…

The Government has confirmed that committments given in 2015 in relation to the Rosalie Unit in Castlerea will be honoured. Roscommon-based Minister Denis Naughten has received a letter from the Minister for Mental Health & Older People Jim Daly, confirming…

Parking charges in Ballina are to be increased, following a meeting of the Ballina Municipal District on Monday. Cathaoirleach of the Municipal District Councillor Michael Smyth told Midwest News earlier that charges will be increased by between and 5 and 10…

Tomorrow's strike by Ryanair pilots will not impact on any flights into or out of Ireland West Airport Knock. Dublin-based pilots are planning a 24-hour strike, which Ryanair says will impact on about 30 flights between Ireland and the UK. Customers affected…

The Landmark Media group, whose titles include The Western People and Roscommon Herald, has been acquired by the Irish Times. The deal involves the purchase of the entire business of Landmark media, whose titles also include the Irish Examiner and Evening…

Travellers’ Journey is a new exhibition on show at the Museum of Country Life in Turlough, Castlebar, and it was launched yesterday by the President of Ireland Michael D Higgins. It exhibits the life and traditions of the Traveller community in the west of…

Michael D Higgins says the people of Ireland have been asking him since 2016 to serve a second term as President. He officially launched his campaign to seek a second term as President, in the grounds of the National Museum of Country Life in Turlough,…

After a month without any significant rain, scattered showers are forecast across the country in the coming days - however water restrictions will continue. Met Éireann says showers will spread across the northern half of the country today with top…

Up to 40,000 people are expected in Ballina today for the annual Heritage Day - one of the highlights of the Ballina Salmon Festival. Gardai are advising that a traffic management plan will be in place throughout the day, and the town centre has been closed…

Payments allocated to various festivals, events and committees in the Ballina Municipal District will be paid out from next week, following a decision by councillors yesterday to increase parking charges in Ballina town. An increase of between 5 and 10 cent…

President Michael D Higgins attended two engagements in Mayo this afternoon - on the same day as he confirmed his intention for run for a second term in Áras an Uachtaráin. His first stop was at Hope House in Foxford, the addiction treatment centre which is…

Ryanair has announced it will cancel up to 30 Irish flights this Thursday, during a strike by pilots. The airline says only some services between Ireland and the UK will be affected, while all Ireland to Europe flights will operate as normal. Dublin-based…

Mayo Ladies Manager Peter Leahy has declined to comment on a report this morning that up to ten of his players have walked out ahead of their All Ireland SFC qualifier clash with Cavan on Saturday next. The Mayo News today revealed that the Mayo Ladies senior…

President Michael D. Higgins has confirmed this morning that he will be offering himself as an independent candidate, when the Ministerial Order for a Presidential Election is made later in the year. The Government has been informed of this decision. The…

The Route 64 Sligo to Galway bus went on fire yesterday evening at Charlestown. An investigation is now underway into the cause of the blaze. More than 40 passengers were evacuated from the bus. It is reported that smoke was seen coming from the dashboard…

At a packed public meeting last night in Castlerea, Minister Naughten confirmed that the Taoiseach will honour the commitments given in 2015, securing the Rosalie unit as a residential facility, Confirmation in writing confirming that commitment is expected…

Up to ten players on the Mayo Ladies senior football squad have walked out ahead of their All Ireland SFC qualifier clash with Cavan on Saturday next. That’s according to a front page story in today’s Mayo News. Among the players who have withdrawn from the…

The Association of Catholic Priests will hold a public meeting in Tuam this Wednesday evening, ahead of the Pope's visit to Ireland next month. This is one of four regional meetings being held across the country ahead of the Papal visit, asking what do we…

A well-known Galway actor and singer has been jailed for six years for raping a young student in his van while she was asleep. Garrett Phillips, who was in Ros na Rún and recently starred as Frank Sinatra in a West End show, claimed what happened was…

Neueda Technologies has announced that it is to create 200 software development jobs in Athlone. The IT Training, development and consulting services company is headquartered in Belfast, and is establishing a Software Engineering Hub in Athlone where it will…

Gardai in Sligo are investigating a break in to The Star of the Sea Church in Rathlee yesterday. A chalice and cash was taken in the incident. Gardai say the theft occurred between 1am and 4am (Sunday). The thieves gained entry by forcing a rear door of the…

Castlebar Sinn Fein councillor Joe McHale last week called on Bus Eireann to review their new service and restore the 456 Bus route that had, for almost a century, served people living along the main route between Ballina and Castlebar. That service, between…

Visiting restrictions due to the 'Winter Vomiting Virus’ at Mayo University Hospital have been lifted. However, hospital management is advising that there are signs that the 'Winter Vomiting Virus' is still active in the community and are asking visitors to…

Tuam Home Survivors Network has issued a statement saying the Report of the so-called ''Consultative process' on the future of the Tuam Mother and Baby Home site is worthless, designed to delay or prevent what clearly requires to be done. It says the report…

A young man who died in a road collision in Navan on Friday night last has been named ad Martin Ginnelly of Mayo road, Gibbstown, Navan county Meath. Both of his parents are native of Erris, his father is Pat Ginnelly of Claggan , Belmullet and his mother is…

Half a million tickets for the Papal Mass in the Phoenix Park, similar to the 45,000 tickets for the Pope’s visit to Knock, are now all booked out People from 116 countries are represented in the bookings for the Papal Mass in the Phoenix Park in Dublin.…

Funding of 70,000 euro has been secured for flood defence measures in Cong village. The news has been confirmed today by local Fianna Fail councillor Damien Ryan. He told Midwest News that the funding will be used to erect barriers, a flood protection wall…

The HSE has been accused of betraying the residents of the Rosalie Unit, a facility for adults with mental health issues in Castlerea, by families who say they will fight plans to close the unit. Minister for Communications Denis Naughten has confirmed, to…

€168m is owed to Irish Water in unpaid charges by businesses. The Sunday Business Post says the outstanding bill comes at a time when a nationwide hosepipe ban has been imposed during the current drought and water shortages. Sinn Fein obtained the figures…

A draft Public Realm Plan has been approved for the town of Ballinrobe and its environs. The collaborative plan was compiled by Paul Hogart Consultants working with local people and Mayo County Council. Ballinrobe is described as having a vibrant community…

The ICMSA has welcomed changes in the new Heritage Bill which will allow the cutting of the sides of hedges on rural roads to be brought back from 1st September to 1st August, as a road safety measure. The Heritage Bill is currently at Final Stage in the…

Irishmen and women who died in past wars or on UN service are being remembered today at ceremonies across the country. The National Day of Commemoration is being marked at six locations across Ireland, including Galway and Sligo. In Galway the commemoration…

A drug and alcohol free, teen music festival is returning to Mayo this weekend for its tenth anniversary. Band on the Strand takes place at Lacken Strand. 2,000 young people from all over Ireland will attend the teen beach event.

Dunnes Stores and Spar are recalling some of their 'own-brand' pestos, due to the possible presence of Salmonella. Consumers who bought affected batches should dispose of it, or return it to the place of purchase. A list of affected products is published on…

An Post this week carried out Ireland’s first ever autonomous parcel delivery from mainland to island using a drone. Just after 3.30pm on Thursday the company delivered a parcel by drone from Roonagh Pier in Mayo to Clare Island.

Supermac’s has announced that it will introduce 100 percent recyclable cups, paper straws, and create Green teams in each of its outlets nationwide as part of a major initiative to Go Green. Glan and Glas / Clean and Green Initiative will begin to be…

A demonstration will take place at The Fairgreen in Westport at 2pm this afternoon (Saturday), as part of a nationwide rally following the Cervical Check scandal. The demonstrations are being organised by the Standing4Women campaign, and will take place at…

A 76 year-old man who sexually molested seven girls aged between 7 and 12 over a seven year period was sentenced to a total of three years in prison at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court today . Patrick Reilly, Shanaghy, Belmullet, Co. Mayo, was described by…

In the Dail yesterday the Minister for the elderly Jim Daly, indicated that the Rosalie Unit in Castlerea will not be closed down as a HSE facility, but may no longer serve as a residential facility for elderly people with alzheimers or dementia. He was…

Hope House, a residential addiction treatment centre located in Foxford and serving the western region is twenty five years in existence this year. Over that quarter of a century, the facility, located at the former Sisters of Charity Convent, in the town…

A man who had been reported missing from Co Sligo has been found safe and well. Paul Geraghty, also known as Pol MacOireachtaigh, who is from Tubbercurry was reported missing on Tuesday June 26th. Gardai confirmed this afternoon that he has been found safe…

Keenagh Community Development Council has shot a video in the hope of attracting people to come and live in the North Mayo area. A spokesperson for the council says like all rural communities in the west of Ireland, they have seen a decline for various…

Brackloon /Spadagh Group Water Scheme in Ballyhaunis has now imposed a complete hose pipe ban on households connected to the scheme, effective from today (Friday). The group scheme is urging members to check for leaks on their properties and if they detect…

Michael Ring T.D., Minister for Rural and Community Development, today announced funding of €250,000 for five community playgrounds and multi-use games areas (MUGAs) in Mayo under the CLÁR Programme 2018 (Measure 2). Minister Ring has allocated funding to the…

People are being urged to play their part, with a hosepipe ban now in place across the country. It will remain in force until the end of the month, as supplies remain dangerously low. With most of the country in the grip of drought and temperatures set to…

Due to an on-going outbreak of norovirus in Mayo University Hospital, management is now asking for a full restriction on visiting. Arrangements will be made for family members of critically ill patients or those patients who require assistance or support of a…

Gardai are appealing for the public’s assistance in tracing a 41-year-old man who has been reported missing from Co Sligo. Paul Geraghty, also known as Pol MacOireachtaigh, who is from Tubbercurry, has been missing since Tuesday June 26th. Paul is…

There's a major jobs boost for Sligo, as Phibro Animal Health Corporation has announced plans to establish a biotech facility at the IDA Finisklin Business Park in Sligo town, creating up to 150 jobs over the next 5 years. Phibro develops and manufactures a…

As the hot spell continues, Inland Fisheries Ireland is appealing to anglers and fishery managers to voluntarily cease salmon angling on catch and release rivers with immediate effect, due to high water temperatures and the current drought conditions. The…

A farmer has been seriously injured in a farm accident in Co Roscommon. It's understood the incident occurred yesterday evening at Kilmore, near Carrick on Shannon when a bale and pallet fell on the farmer while he was stacking them in a shed. The man was…

Today has provided a break from the heatwave, as temperatures across the country are considerably lower than previous days. Yesterday, Mount Dillon in Co Roscommon recorded the country's top temperature of 28 degrees celsius, with temperatures in Co Mayo…

A nationwide hosepipe ban comes into operation from 8am tomorrow morning, as a drought continues across the country. Irish Water has announced a hosepipe ban from tomorrow until the end of July, to help protect water supplies. With little or no rain over the…

While it might be too soon to say farmers are in a crisis situation due to the current dry spell of weather, they are certainly in a very difficult position. That’s according to Irish Farmers Journal News Correspondent Hannah Quinn Mulligan. The current dry…

The HSE West received over 2,000 requests for information last year under Freedom of Information, with half of these relating to Galway University Hospital. The figures were released at a recent meeting of the HSE Regional Forum, when Galway City FG…

A Ballinrobe native, who died while on peacekeeping duty in the Lebanon, should be officially remembered on the 30th anniversary of his death. That’s according to Fianna Fail Cllr Damien Ryan. Corporal Fintan Heneghan died alongside Private Mannix Armstrong…

Most parts of the country will enter a state of 'absolute drought' today meaning no rain has fallen in the past 15 days. As a result, Irish water has extended the hosepipe ban country wide from tomorrow morning - as supplies remain under pressure from the…

Irish Water has announced a hosepipe ban for the whole country. The measure has been in place in the Greater Dublin Area since the start of the week - but will be extended nationwide from Friday at 8am. The order bans the use of water for non-essential…

The industrial action at Roscommon county council has been called off. RTÉ is reporting that the terms of a resolution have been agreed to end industrial action over flexi-leave at the local authority. Over 160 staff members had been staging two days of…

After recent concerns expressed by members of the public the organisers of the Ballina Salmon Festival have decided to cancel plans for a pig racing event during the week long festival. They released the following statement on the decision. "In light of the…

One of the county’s oldest and most popular bus routes, has been significantly impacted by the new Bus Schedule Service announced last week by Bus Eireann. Route 52, that had always picked up passengers along the road between Ballina and Castlebar,…